579-2023

Whereas, for over 40 years, Portland Frontrunners’ ongoing mission has been to promote good health and provide a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community to socially interact, through physical activity and club events; and

Whereas, the Portland Frontrunners have put their best foot forward by creating a positive social environment that encourages everyone to find the joy in physical activity; and

Whereas, the Portland Frontrunners have fostered cross-generational connection and mentorship with members ranging in age from their 20s to their 80s; and

Whereas, the Portland Frontrunners have built and continue to grow a local physically-based community that shares their love for our City in an increasingly digital world; and  

Whereas, each week, rain or shine, the Portland Frontrunners have run and walk routes that highlight the City’s recreational amenities including the Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade, Duniway Track, and Forest Park; and

Whereas, the organization has actively supported local businesses by hosting post-run socials at coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, contributing to the local economy and pandemic business recovery; and 

Whereas, the Portland Frontrunners have acted as stewards of the trails by hosting cleanups on the waterfront and trail maintenance in Forest Park; and  

Whereas, each year, Portland Frontrunners hosts the annual Portland Pride Run, an event that fosters unity, fun, and pride in our City and in our people; and

Whereas, to celebrate their 40th anniversary, Portland Frontrunners plans to give back to our City by commissioning a piece of artwork, to inspire people to be active, which will be painted at the intersection of SE Main Street and the Eastbank Esplanade;

Now, therefore, I, Ted Wheeler, Mayor of the City of Portland, Oregon, the "City of Roses," do hereby proclaim July 12th, 2023, to be the

40th Anniversary of Portland Frontrunners

in Portland and encourage all residents to observe this day.